Cockroaches
American Cockroach
- Also known as the Water bug and Palmetto bug.
- The largest species of common cockroach.
- Despite the name, it was introduced to the U.S. from Africa.
- 1.5 in or larger
- Reddish brown with a yellowish margin on the body region behind the head.
- Live in warm, moist areas.
- Feeds on decaying organic matter especially fermenting foods.
- Considered one of the fastest running insects.
German Cockroach
“Blattodea. Cascuda. Santiago de Compostela 1” by Lmbuga – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons.
- Most common species in homes, apartments, hotels, and restaurants.
- 1/2 inch in length
- Tan to light brown with 2 dark parallel lines running down the back.
- Can hide easily and fit into very small cracks and crevices
- Eat starch, sugar, grease, and meats.
- Commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Prefer warm, humid places.
- Pose health risks.
Oriental Cockroach
- Also called waterbug or black beetle
- 1 in long
- Has wings, but doesn’t fly
- Very dark brown to almost black and shiny
- Feeds on garbage and decaying organic matter
- Found outdoors under debris, stones, leaves, etc.
- Founds indoors in dark, damp areas such as basements and crawl spaces
- Enjoys cooler temperatures than other cockroach species
Smoky Brown Cockroach
“Cockroach egglaying 2” by Toby Hudson – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
- Also called woods roach or waterbug
- A little over 1 inch long
- Dark mahogany color
- Prefers warm, damp, dark, and poorly ventilated areas
- Founds in sheds, subfloors, mulch, and leaf litter
- Can fly short distances
